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Kelvin Wangaya was Kenya's best player at the U20 AFCON, earning a spot in the team of the tournament for the group stages.
Rising Stars midfielder Kelvin Wangaya has been named in the CAF Technical Study Group's official Best XI of the group stage at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Egypt 2025, capping off a standout campaign for the young playmaker.
Wangaya made the most of Kenya’s debut appearance at the continental showpiece, producing one goal and one assist across three group-stage matches.
His performances were not just statistically impressive but also pivotal in setting the tempo and rhythm for Salim Babu’s tactically evolving side.
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A Star in the Making
Wangaya, who was deployed primarily as a deep-lying midfielder, began the tournament by assisting Kenya’s first goal against Morocco from a well-taken set-piece.
He wrapped up the group stage with a composed penalty against Nigeria in a dramatic 2-2 draw — a game in which he was named Man of the Match for his calm command and forward thrust from midfield.
Speaking to Mozzart Sport after being included in the Best XI, the unattached midfielder expressed optimism about his future:
“I am happy with my performances and the support the team gave me on and off the pitch. What I did on the pitch is there for all to see. I remain hopeful of getting offers.”
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Wangaya is the only Kenyan included in the prestigious Best XI, which also features top performers such as Sierra Leone’s group-stage top-scorer Momoh Kamara and South Africa’s Lazola Maku in midfield.
Numbers Don’t Lie
Across the tournament, Wangaya averaged a 7.0 rating from Flashscore over three matches, a figure that reflects both his technical consistency and impact.
He registered two shots on goal against Nigeria — the third most by a Kenyan player — and remains the only Rising Stars midfielder to both score and assist at the tournament.
His influence extends beyond statistics. Wangaya demonstrated an ability to receive on the half-turn, break pressing lines with direct carries, and execute incisive passes under pressure.
His set-piece quality, particularly on corner kicks and free-kicks, added a vital dimension to Kenya’s attacking arsenal.
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Tactical Flexibility
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Wangaya's tactical versatility was particularly evident during Kenya’s final match. With regular midfield partner Andreas Odhiambo on the bench, Wangaya was pushed into a more advanced role while Irad Mshindi provided defensive stability behind him.
This adjustment allowed Wangaya to combine fluently with number 10 Aldrine Kibet and contribute more decisively in the final third.
The result? A dynamic midfield display that embodied the Rising Stars' new playing identity, a progressive style centred on midfield fluidity and movement.
A Future to Build On
Wangaya has come a long way since starring in the CECAFA U20 qualifiers in December, where he scored once and assisted twice. Now, with his U20 AFCON performances making headlines, interest in the Kakamega High School graduate is expected to surge.
Benni McCarthy, among others, is reportedly monitoring his progress closely. Wangaya offers a skillset not often seen in Kenyan midfielders — a press-resistant operator who can dictate tempo, create under pressure, and deliver set-pieces with purpose.
With his stock on the rise and his technical ceiling yet to be reached, Wangaya’s next move could very well be the beginning of a life-changing chapter.
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